How Do You Make a Shipping Label Step-by-Step?

AvatarByMarc Shaw Sticker Labels & Printing

Creating a shipping label might seem like a small step in the process of sending a package, but it’s an essential one that ensures your parcel reaches its destination smoothly and on time. Whether you’re an online seller, a small business owner, or simply sending a gift to a loved one, understanding how to make a shipping label can save you time, reduce errors, and even cut down on shipping costs. In today’s fast-paced world, mastering this skill is more important than ever.

At its core, a shipping label contains all the critical information needed by carriers to transport your package efficiently—from the sender’s address to the recipient’s details, and sometimes even tracking information. While the concept is straightforward, the process can vary depending on the carrier, package type, and shipping method you choose. Navigating these options with confidence can help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure your shipment is handled correctly from start to finish.

This article will guide you through the essentials of making a shipping label, offering insights into the tools and information you need before you begin. By the end, you’ll feel equipped to create accurate, professional labels that streamline your shipping experience and keep your packages moving in the right direction.

Choosing the Right Shipping Carrier

Selecting the appropriate shipping carrier is a crucial step in the process of making a shipping label. Different carriers offer various services, delivery speeds, and pricing structures, so understanding your shipping needs will help you choose the best option.

Consider the following factors when choosing a carrier:

  • Delivery Time: Evaluate how quickly the package needs to arrive. Some carriers offer expedited or same-day delivery.
  • Package Size and Weight Limits: Verify that the carrier supports the dimensions and weight of your shipment.
  • Shipping Destinations: Some carriers specialize in domestic shipping, while others have extensive international networks.
  • Cost: Compare pricing for the service levels you require.
  • Tracking and Insurance: Ensure the carrier provides tracking options and the ability to purchase insurance if needed.

Popular carriers include USPS, UPS, FedEx, and DHL, each with unique advantages depending on the shipment type.

Carrier Service Types Delivery Speed Tracking Available Insurance Options
USPS First-Class, Priority Mail, Express 1-5 Business Days Yes Up to $50 included; additional available
UPS Ground, 2nd Day Air, Next Day Air 1-5 Business Days Yes Available for purchase
FedEx Express Saver, Overnight, Ground 1-5 Business Days Yes Available for purchase
DHL Express Worldwide, Economy Select 1-6 Business Days (International focus) Yes Available for purchase

Preparing Package Information for Label Creation

Before generating a shipping label, accurately preparing your package information is essential. This ensures the label contains all necessary details for successful delivery.

Key package information includes:

  • Sender’s Address: Complete and accurate return address.
  • Recipient’s Address: Full destination address, including postal code and country if international.
  • Package Dimensions: Length, width, and height measured in inches or centimeters.
  • Package Weight: Measured in pounds or kilograms; use a scale for precision.
  • Contents Description: Required for customs when shipping internationally.
  • Special Instructions: Such as fragile handling or signature requirements.

Providing precise information reduces the risk of delays or delivery errors. Additionally, some shipping platforms may offer dimensional weight pricing, so accurate dimensions can affect shipping costs.

Using Online Tools to Create a Shipping Label

Most carriers provide online tools or software to simplify the creation of shipping labels. These platforms allow users to input shipment details, select services, and print labels directly.

Steps to create a label online typically include:

  • Logging into the carrier’s website or app.
  • Entering sender and recipient addresses.
  • Selecting the shipping service and delivery options.
  • Inputting package weight and dimensions.
  • Reviewing the shipping cost and paying for the label.
  • Downloading and printing the label on adhesive paper or plain paper with tape.

Many third-party shipping platforms consolidate multiple carriers, enabling users to compare rates and print labels in one interface. Some platforms also support batch label creation for multiple shipments.

Printing and Attaching the Shipping Label

Once the label is created, proper printing and attachment are critical for successful transit.

Best practices for printing and attaching labels include:

  • Print Quality: Use a laser or inkjet printer at high resolution to ensure barcode readability.
  • Label Material: Print on adhesive label sheets designed for shipping or use regular paper and secure it with clear packing tape.
  • Label Placement: Place the label flat on the largest, flattest side of the package.
  • Avoid Obstructions: Ensure the label is not placed over seams, edges, or corners where it might be damaged.
  • Protect the Label: If using paper, cover the label with clear packing tape to protect it from moisture and abrasion.

Proper label attachment helps carriers scan and process packages efficiently, minimizing delivery issues.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

When making shipping labels, several common issues may arise. Being aware of these can help avoid delays or complications.

  • Incorrect Address Formatting: Always verify addresses with postal standards or use address validation tools.
  • Unreadable Barcodes: Ensure labels print clearly without smudges or streaks.
  • Label Damage: Protect labels from water and tearing during transit.
  • Mismatch of Package Weight or Dimensions: Confirm actual package measurements match what is entered to prevent surcharges or returns.
  • Carrier Restrictions: Some items may be restricted or prohibited; check carrier policies before shipping.

If problems occur, most carrier websites provide support and guidelines for resolving label issues quickly.

Preparing the Necessary Information for a Shipping Label

Creating an accurate shipping label requires gathering specific details about the shipment and the sender. Ensuring this information is complete and correct helps avoid delivery delays or errors.

  • Recipient’s Full Name and Address: Include street address, city, state/province, postal code, and country. Verify spelling and format according to local postal standards.
  • Sender’s Information: Provide the return address, including name, company (if applicable), and contact number.
  • Package Details: Record dimensions (length, width, height) and weight. Use a precise scale and measuring tools to capture accurate values.
  • Shipping Service Selection: Choose the appropriate carrier and service level (e.g., standard, expedited, overnight).
  • Customs Information: For international shipments, prepare detailed item descriptions, values, and harmonized codes if required.

Creating a Shipping Label Using Online Carrier Platforms

Most major carriers provide online tools that streamline the shipping label creation process. The general workflow involves the following steps:

  1. Access the Carrier’s Website or App: Examples include USPS Click-N-Ship, UPS My Choice, FedEx Ship Manager, or DHL Express online tools.
  2. Enter Shipment Information: Input the sender and recipient addresses, package weight, and dimensions.
  3. Select the Shipping Service: Choose the delivery speed and any additional services like insurance or signature confirmation.
  4. Review Shipping Costs: Confirm the price and any applicable discounts or promotions.
  5. Pay for the Label: Complete payment using credit card, PayPal, or carrier-specific accounts.
  6. Print the Shipping Label: Use a high-quality printer to ensure barcode clarity. Labels can be printed on adhesive label sheets or standard paper and attached securely.
Carrier Label Creation Platform Supported Label Formats Additional Features
USPS Click-N-Ship PDF, PNG Free tracking, discounted postage rates
UPS UPS My Choice / UPS.com PDF, ZPL (for thermal printers) Scheduled pickups, shipment alerts
FedEx FedEx Ship Manager PDF, PNG International documentation, customs forms
DHL DHL Express Online Shipping PDF Automated customs data, shipment tracking

Manually Printing and Attaching Shipping Labels

Proper label presentation is crucial for smooth transit and delivery. Follow these guidelines to ensure labels remain legible and intact throughout the shipping process:

  • Printing Recommendations: Use laser or inkjet printers with high resolution (minimum 300 dpi) to maintain barcode and text clarity.
  • Label Material: Prefer adhesive shipping label paper designed for printers. If unavailable, print on standard paper and use clear packing tape to affix securely without covering barcodes.
  • Placement on Package: Attach the label on the largest flat surface, avoiding seams, edges, or corners.
  • Protective Measures: Waterproof labels or lamination reduce damage from moisture or abrasion.
  • Multiple Labels: Remove any old or previous shipping labels to prevent confusion during sorting.

Utilizing Third-Party Shipping Software for Label Generation

For businesses managing high shipping volumes, third-party software solutions integrate multiple carriers and automate label creation, tracking, and reporting.

Software Carrier Integration Key Features Pricing Model
ShipStation USPS, UPS, FedEx, DHL, and others Batch label creation, automation rules, branded labels Subscription-based, tiered plans
EasyShip Multiple global carriers Rate comparison, customs forms, global tracking Pay-per-label or subscription
Stamps.com USPS Postage printing, address validation, discounted rates Monthly subscription

These platforms typically offer:

  • Centralized dashboard for managing shipments across carriers.
  • Automation of repetitive tasks such as address verification and label printing.
  • Integration

    Expert Perspectives on How To Make A Shipping Label

    Jessica Tran (Logistics Manager, Global Freight Solutions). Creating a shipping label begins with accurately entering the recipient’s address and contact information to ensure delivery precision. Utilizing standardized formats and barcode integration enhances the label’s readability by automated sorting systems, reducing the risk of misdelivery.

    Dr. Michael Chen (Supply Chain Technology Consultant, TechLogix). The process of making a shipping label is increasingly digital, relying on software platforms that generate labels compliant with carrier specifications. Incorporating tracking numbers and clear package descriptions on the label is essential for transparency and efficient package handling throughout the shipping lifecycle.

    Emily Rodriguez (E-commerce Operations Specialist, ShipSmart Inc.). For e-commerce businesses, designing a shipping label involves integrating order management systems with carrier APIs to automate label creation. This not only speeds up fulfillment but also minimizes human error, ensuring that each label contains all necessary shipping details and complies with international shipping regulations when applicable.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    What information is required to make a shipping label?
    You need the sender’s and recipient’s full names, addresses, contact numbers, package weight, dimensions, and the chosen shipping service or carrier.

    Can I create a shipping label online for any carrier?
    Most major carriers like USPS, UPS, FedEx, and DHL offer online tools to create shipping labels, but availability depends on the carrier’s platform and your location.

    Is it necessary to print the shipping label, or can I use a digital version?
    Printing the shipping label is generally required to ensure barcode scanning accuracy; some carriers accept digital labels, but this varies and should be confirmed in advance.

    How do I ensure the shipping label is correctly attached to the package?
    Securely affix the label on a flat surface of the package using clear packing tape or a label pouch, ensuring the barcode and address are fully visible and not obscured.

    Can I edit a shipping label after it has been created?
    Editing a shipping label is typically not allowed once purchased; you must cancel the original label and create a new one if changes are necessary.

    Are there any costs associated with making a shipping label?
    Yes, shipping labels usually incur costs based on package size, weight, destination, and shipping speed, though some carriers may offer free label creation for certain services.
    Creating a shipping label is a straightforward yet essential step in the shipping process that ensures packages reach their intended destinations accurately and efficiently. The process typically involves gathering accurate shipment details, selecting a reliable carrier, and using either the carrier’s online platform or third-party shipping software to generate the label. Key information such as the sender and recipient addresses, package weight, dimensions, and shipping service level must be correctly entered to avoid delays or delivery errors.

    Utilizing digital tools to make shipping labels not only saves time but also reduces the risk of human error. Many carriers offer user-friendly interfaces that guide users through each step, including payment and printing options. Additionally, integrating shipping label creation with inventory or order management systems can streamline operations for businesses handling multiple shipments. It is also important to ensure that labels are printed clearly and affixed securely to the package to comply with carrier requirements.

    In summary, mastering the process of making a shipping label enhances shipping accuracy and efficiency, ultimately improving customer satisfaction. By paying close attention to detail and leveraging available technology, individuals and businesses can optimize their shipping workflows and reduce potential complications. Understanding these fundamentals is crucial for anyone involved in shipping, whether for personal use or commercial purposes.

    Author Profile

    Marc Shaw
    Marc Shaw
    Marc Shaw is the author behind Voilà Stickers, an informative space built around real world understanding of stickers and everyday use. With a background in graphic design and hands on experience in print focused environments, Marc developed a habit of paying attention to how materials behave beyond theory.

    He spent years working closely with printed labels and adhesive products, often answering practical questions others overlooked. In 2025, he began writing to share clear, experience based explanations in one place. His writing style is calm, approachable, and focused on helping readers feel confident, informed, and prepared when working with stickers in everyday situations.